Hebrews 10:19-22 is about the access to God through the blood of Jesus, encouraging believers to draw near with a sincere heart, in full assurance of faith, having their hearts cleansed from a guilty conscience and their bodies washed with pure water.
19 Therefore, brothers, since we have confidence to enter the holy places by the blood of Jesus,
20 by the new and living way that he opened for us through the curtain, that is, through his flesh,
21 and since we have a great priest over the house of God,
22 let us draw near with a true heart in full assurance of faith, with our hearts sprinkled clean from an evil conscience and our bodies washed with pure water.
Setting the Scene for Hebrews 10:19-22
In Hebrews chapter 10, the scene is set in a gathering of early Christian believers in a house church in Jerusalem. The room is dimly lit by oil lamps, casting a warm glow on the faces of those present. The air is filled with a sense of anticipation and reverence as the believers come together to worship and study the scriptures.
Among those gathered are Mary, a widow who was healed by Jesus, Peter, one of the twelve disciples, and Timothy, a young believer who was mentored by the apostle Paul. They have come together to encourage one another in their faith and to seek God’s presence through prayer and worship.
As they sing hymns and offer prayers of thanksgiving, a sense of unity and peace settles over the room. The believers are reminded of the sacrifice of Jesus and the access they now have to God through His blood. With hearts full of gratitude and reverence, they approach the throne of grace with confidence, knowing that they are forgiven and accepted by God.
What is Hebrews 10:19-22 about?
The author in Hebrews 10:19-22 emphasizes the profound significance of Jesus Christ’s sacrifice and the access it provides for believers to approach God with confidence. Believers are encouraged to draw near to God boldly and without hesitation by acknowledging the cleansing power of Jesus’ sacrifice. This passage underscores the transformative nature of Jesus’ sacrifice, which not only cleanses us from sin but also empowers us to approach God with assurance and confidence.
Think about the implications of being able to approach God with confidence because of Jesus’ sacrifice. What does this mean for your relationship with God? How does it impact the way you view yourself and your standing before God? This passage serves as a powerful reminder of the incredible grace and love that God has extended to us through Jesus Christ, offering us the opportunity to draw near to Him with boldness and assurance. Let this truth sink deep into your heart and allow it to strengthen your faith and your relationship with God.
Understanding what Hebrews 10:19-22 really means
The Book of Hebrews, written to Jewish Christians facing persecution and wavering faith, emphasizes the superiority of Christ and the new covenant He established. In Hebrews 10:19-22, believers are urged to draw near to God with confidence, highlighting the direct access to God made possible through Jesus’ sacrifice. The phrase “confidence to enter the Most Holy Place” alludes to the inner sanctuary of the Tabernacle/Temple, symbolizing God’s presence and the atonement for sins. Through Jesus, believers can now approach God boldly, as His sacrifice has torn the veil that separated humanity from God, granting unrestricted access to His presence.
“By the blood of Jesus” underscores the centrality of Christ’s sacrificial death in reconciling humanity with God. Hebrews 9:12-14 elaborates on how Jesus, as the ultimate High Priest, entered the Most Holy Place once for all, offering His own blood for eternal redemption. This act not only cleanses believers from sin but also establishes a new covenant, inaugurating a “new and living way” to God. Jesus’ resurrection signifies a living hope and a transformative path to God, echoing His own words in John 14:6, where He declares Himself as the exclusive way, truth, and life.
The assurance of faith mentioned in these verses speaks to the unwavering trust in God’s promises that believers are called to embody. Hebrews 11:1 further elucidates this concept, defining faith as the assurance of things hoped for and the conviction of things not seen. In today’s context, these verses offer solace and encouragement to those grappling with doubts or fears, assuring them of their secure standing before God through Christ’s sacrifice. Believers are reminded that they can approach God confidently, knowing that their faith is anchored in the unchanging promises of God.
Consider a story of someone who, amidst trials and uncertainties, found peace and strength by clinging to these truths. Through understanding and applying Hebrews 10:19-22, they experienced a deepening of their relationship with God, drawing near to Him with newfound confidence and trust. This anecdote serves as a testament to the enduring relevance and transformative power of these verses in the lives of believers today.
In conclusion, the exhortation in Hebrews 10:19-22 resonates across time, inviting believers to approach God boldly, anchored in the full assurance of faith made possible by Jesus’ sacrifice. As we reflect on these truths, may we be encouraged to draw near to God with unwavering confidence, embracing the living hope and transformative power found in Christ alone.
How can we draw near to God with confidence?
We can draw near to God with confidence by having boldness or assurance in our approach to Him. This boldness comes from the understanding that Jesus Christ has opened the way for us to enter into the presence of God through His sacrifice. With this knowledge, we can approach God without fear or reservation, knowing that we are accepted and welcomed by Him.
Furthermore, drawing near to God with confidence involves having a sincere heart and full assurance of faith. This means approaching God with a genuine desire to seek His presence and guidance, while also having unwavering trust in His promises and faithfulness. We can experience the benefits of a close and intimate connection with God by maintaining a sincere and confident attitude in our relationship with Him.
Application
Believers, now is the time to step boldly into the presence of God, with unwavering faith and a pure heart. Embrace the opportunity to approach Him freely, without fear or doubt. Shed any guilt or shame, for Jesus has paved the way for us to draw near. So, will you seize this chance to experience His mercy and grace in your life?
Reverend Ogunlade is a seasoned Church Minister with over three decades of experience in guiding and nurturing congregations. With profound wisdom and a serene approach, Reverend Ogunlade has carried out various pastoral duties, including delivering uplifting sermons, conducting religious ceremonies, and offering sage counsel to individuals seeking spiritual guidance. Their commitment to fostering harmony and righteousness within their community is exemplified through their compassionate nature, making them a beloved and trusted figure among the congregation.